Top 15 Safe Driving Tips for New Drivers in Dubai

Dubai has some of the best road systems in the world. All roads in the city are well-paved and maintained properly. New drivers have the perfect opportunity to master the technique and gain more experience. However, safe driving tips in Dubai need to be followed at all times. The high-quality roads also encourage experienced drivers to drive at fast speeds. If you have recently gotten your driving license, you would be able to rent a car in Dubai as well. Renting a car is a great option to practice your driving skills before purchasing a car of your own. Safe driving includes being careful about your surroundings while on the road. So, here are some tips that new drivers should follow to make driving a lot safer:

1: Observe Speed Limits at All Times

Pay attention to speed limits and adhere to them at all times. Speeding is a common cause of accidents and traffic violations. New drivers will lack vehicle control at high speeds. Also, the higher the speed, the more difficult it becomes to brake in time and keep the car where it needs to be. Also, different roads will have different speed limits. Generally, signage will be in place. Also, violating speed limits will get you in trouble with the law as well.

2: Know the Local Road Regulations Inside and Out

Study the Dubai Road and Traffic Authority's (RTA) traffic rules and regulations to understand the city's specific driving guidelines. There is much to know. Also, having passed your driving license, you should be aware of most regulations already.

Give yourself refreshers by reading out guides on road signs. Also, it is important to know the less commonly used road signs and regulations as well.

3: Indicate and Use Signals When Driving

Always use your turn indicators when making a turn. Signal your intentions clearly to other drivers. Make signaling a habit whenever you are behind the wheel. Also, it helps build the indicator habit when you do it while parking as well. The key to safe driving is letting people behind you know exactly what you intend on doing and where you intend on going.

4: Avoid Tailgating at All Times

Tailgating is dangerous and aggressive. Maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle in front to avoid accidents. Tailgating is also a traffic offense in Dubai. So, make sure not to tailgate when driving. New drivers tend to brake very late. Getting up close to the car in front is a recipe for disaster. Avoid tailgating at all times and drive safely in the city.

5: Always Maintain a Safe Braking Distance

In addition to avoiding tailgating, it is important to maintain a safe distance between your car and the one ahead of you. Also, pay attention to your mirrors and try to maintain a safe distance between yourself and the car behind you. Keep a reasonable distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. This allows for ample reaction time in case of sudden stops. A general rule is you should be able to see the full tires of the car ahead and behind you.

6: Always Use a Seatbelt

Ensure that all passengers, including yourself, wear seat belts. It's mandatory in Dubai and crucial for safety. Also, it's more about personal safety than following the regulations. In any unwanted situation, your seatbelt will be the difference between life and death. So, fasten your seatbelt before moving the car. You can never predict the road.

7: Improve Your Roundabout Driving Technique

When approaching a roundabout, yield to vehicles already inside the circle. Enter when it's safe to do so. Give other drivers the space they need to exit the roundabout before you enter it. Roundabouts are commonly found in Dubai. You need to be aware with roundabout driving rules when looking for a safe driving experience.

8: Practice Your Lane Driving

Dubai's roads can be busy, so stay in your designated lane to maintain a safe flow of traffic. There is a fast lane on most long roads. Also, change lanes accordingly when planning on turning. Also, driving according to the speed of the road in your lane is important. Light and heavy vehicles will have different speed limits. Improve your lane driving for safer experiences.

9: Be Mindful of the Pedestrians

Be extra cautious at pedestrian crossings and school zones. Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Remember, it’s people’s lives at stake. Allow space where required and drive safely when on city roads. Also, residential area roads need even more careful driving for pedestrians.

10: Don’t Lose Control of the Vehicle

Keep both hands on the steering wheel and maintain full control of the vehicle at all times. New drivers are always tempted to drive with one hand on the wheel. However, you have the most control of the car when both hands are on the wheel. Do not use any of your hands for any other tasks but handling the wheel.

11: Eliminate Distractions When Behind the Wheel

Don't use your phone while driving unless you have a hands-free system. Texting or talking on the phone can lead to accidents. Other distractions might include interacting with the infotainment system. Set up navigation when the car is stationary or use voice commands where available.

12: Read and Pay Attention to Road Signs

Pay attention to road signs, including speed limits, no-parking zones, and one-way street indicators. Follow all the road signs when driving. Also, roadworks are illustrated with signage as well. Be mindful when driving through a roadwork sight. Some parts of the road or lane(s) might be closed due to roadworks.

13: Practice Defensive Driving More

Always assume that other drivers may make mistakes. Be prepared to react defensively to sudden movements or erratic behavior from other road users. Also, practice your reflexes as well. You might need to react in a split second to avoid unwanted situations. This is where paying maximum attention helps as well.

14: Watch Out for Cyclists and Motorcyclists

Share the road with cyclists and motorcyclists, giving them ample space and consideration. Keep in mind that both cyclists and motorcyclists might sway in your direction. Give 2-wheel drivers the space they need to be safe. Practice the art of giving space. Those riders don’t have much protection when on the road.

15: Do Not Switch Lanes Without Indicating

Stick to your lane and avoid weaving in and out of traffic. This maintains order and reduces the risk of collisions. Always indicated when switching lanes. Indicator usage is critical to safe driving in Dubai. Make sure to always indicate to let drivers behind you what you will be doing next.

Conclusion 

Safe driving in Dubai is always necessary. New drivers should always keep in mind all these above mentioned tips when on the road. If you are looking for the best car rental service in Dubai, Faster Rent a Car is the right solution provider for your requirements. Give us a call and find out what cars you can rent with a fresh driving license.